The rise in fast fashion has brought cheap prices and trendy looks at an overwhelming rate.
Fast fashion is a term used to describe how quickly trends seen on the catwalk are brought to retailers. Every time we go to a store, there seems to be new merchandise that we wish we could have. Fast fashion has made us stop and think about whether or not those major designers are worth it.
You may end up asking yourself, “Are these Citizen of Humanity jeans really worth $175? If something is expensive, does it make it better?”
I used to think the brand name and the price tag directly reflected the quality and fit of the clothes. While in many cases this is true, I have found recently that my favorite jeans and sweaters are those I find with an under-$50 budget.
Over fall break, my mom and I went shopping at Target. There is something about Target that is comfortable and inviting to its customers. They are able to give low prices, yet produce better quality items than their competitors. Target’s culture keeps a loyal customer base and because there is not a location in Boone, going home to the store is always exciting.
My mom ended up buying a pair of Levi’s Target jeans for $27.99. Levi’s had an agreement with Target to make a cheaper line for their store. Even though they clearly fit her better than the more than $100 designer jeans she wore in to the store, she was hesitant.
About five years ago, my mom would have never even tried on Target jeans. What has changed? I think now society is not as obsessed with design labels. We just want to look our best and many have realized the price doesn’t reflect what will fit us best. Fast fashion has contributed to humbling my families fashion choices. Has it had the same affect on you?
The point is for you to go out and look at places you normally would not have. Don’t worry about designer labels and what may be written on the back pocket of your jeans. Try on things you normally wouldn’t and concentrate more on what you feel good in.
I challenge you to look in your closet and try on your favorite pair of jeans. How much were they? Do you like them because of the designer, the fit or both? Think more critically about your clothing and the choices you make when looking for those everyday wardrobe pieces.
Becoming a smarter shopper can help you in many ways. Gaining confidence and knowing what you look good in can only help you become more fashionable.
Kline, a junior communications major from Raleigh, is a fashion blogger.